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Mid-Century ModernSouth-Facing

Autumn Fern 1

Dulux

The Analysis

Autumn Fern 1 is a deep, earthy terracotta that absorbs significant light due to its low LRV of 18.44, making a room feel intimate and enclosed rather than spacious. It will make a large room feel grounded and cozy, but it can overwhelm smaller spaces if used on every wall.

Because of its intensity, this colour works best as a bold feature wall or a statement piece in a room with high ceilings. It is too heavy to function as a backdrop for art or neutral decor, so use it to draw focus to a specific architectural element like a fireplace or bookshelf.

LRV 18

History & Origin

This shade leans into a mid-century modern aesthetic, reminiscent of the 1970s revival, while also appearing in traditional heritage settings. It feels classic yet grounded, avoiding the sterile trends of modern minimalist paint palettes.

Undertonewarm
FamilyOrange

How to Use It

Pair this colour with walnut or dark oak wood tones to highlight its richness, or use matte black hardware for a sharp, modern contrast. It excels in dining rooms or dens where you want a warm, saturated atmosphere; avoid using it in small, windowless hallways.

The Mood

This is an energizing and warm colour that brings a sense of heat and comfort to a home. It feels active and stimulating, making it better suited for social areas where you want to encourage conversation rather than quiet relaxation.

Colour harmonies

Complementary

Opposite on the colour wheel — bold, high-contrast pairings. Use for a feature wall or furniture you want to command attention.

Analogous

Neighbouring hues — cohesive and calm, great for layered schemes that feel collected rather than matched.

Split complementary

Near-opposites for strong contrast with a little less tension than a pure complement. A favourite of interior designers.

Triadic

Three evenly spaced hues — balanced, vibrant, and versatile. Keep one dominant and use the others sparingly.

Tetradic (square)

Four hues in a square on the wheel — rich, dynamic palettes. Best when one colour leads and the others accent.

Monochromatic

Dark, mid, and light steps on the same hue — a failsafe gradient for trim, walls, and accents without shifting colour family.

Brand Matches

Perceptually similar colours from across all brands in our database.

  • Autumn Embrace

    Dulux

  • Fall Harvest

    Benjamin Moore · 2168-10

  • Raucous Orange

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6883

  • Determined Orange

    Sherwin-Williams · SW6635

  • Pumpkin Patch

    Behr · S-H-250

  • Hot Wings

    Valspar · V046-5

Lighting

See how this colour shifts across natural and artificial light conditions.

  • Natural
  • Morning
  • Afternoon
  • Evening
  • Overcast
  • 2700K
  • 3500K
  • 4000K
  • 5500K